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The Everton midfielder received a round of applause from his fellow squad members after delivering an explanation for his extraordinary red card during the recent victory at Manchester United.

Rare Incident in English Football

Gueye became the first Premier League player to be sent off for striking a fellow player in 17 years when he slapped Michael Keane during the fixture. Everton's display was heroic as they competed with 10 men for 85 minutes, including stoppage time, to achieve David Moyes' first win at Old Trafford as a visiting manager in 18 attempts.

'I want to apologise first to Michael Keane,' he wrote on his accounts. 'I accept complete responsibility for my actions.'

Team Response

Gueye was unable to secure an chance to speak with Moyes or his teammates at half-time. Afterwards, with the away dressing room celebrating after the narrow victory, the veteran asked to speak to the whole team and the defender specifically.

• He expressed regret to Keane for slapping him across the head
• The heated early altercation occurred after a misplaced pass in his own penalty area
• Additionally he apologized to the squad for putting them with a difficult challenge
• Gueye's words were warmly received by the players

Potential Ramifications

Gueye may yet be punished by the club despite Moyes' statement that he appreciates his players fighting with each other. The Scot has a regular punishment process for dismissals and cautions, including financial penalties, which is expected to be implemented in Gueye's case.

Ban and International Duty

The Merseyside club could be without their influential player until the new year. Gueye will serve a three-match suspension against Newcastle, Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest but could be called up for AFCON responsibilities by Senegal before he can return to play against Chelsea on mid-December.

'Passions can sometimes overflow,' Gueye continued. 'But nothing justifies such behaviour.'

Rival Reaction

At the same time, the Manchester United defender claimed United of lacking immediacy in the recent loss, which ended their unbeaten run at five games.

• 'The Premier League is not for the weak,' said the Netherlands international
• 'We were missing the necessary intensity to find the net'
• 'When facing sides like Everton,' who drop back it's difficult

The Red Devils head to Selhurst Park for Sunday's lunchtime start. 'The next game is really important now,' said the defender. 'We must recover strongly from this display.'